Alex Breen, Rewards Analyst
@alex_breen
The best way to use your frequent flyer miles is to book flights. Major airlines allow you to book flights with the airline company where you have your frequent flyer miles as well as their airline partners.
Each frequent flyer program has its own flight search tool where you can check a box that says "Redeem miles", "Use miles" or similar language. After you enter your desired travel dates and route, the flight prices will be listed in miles. Pick the flight you want and complete the booking process to get your ticket bought with miles.
However, you can redeem your frequent flyer miles for more than just flights.
Top 10 U.S. Airlines Redemption Options
| Airline Company | Redemption Options |
|---|---|
| United Airlines | Flight upgrades, rental cars, hotel stays, cruises, luxury experiences, magazine subscriptions, donations, United Club membership, in-flight WiFi, TSA PreCheck, gift cards and products shopping |
| Southwest Airlines | Flight upgrades, gift cards, rental cards, hotel stays, cruises, merchandise, donations and experiences |
| Delta Air Lines | Flight upgrades, other Delta charges, gift cards, vacation packages, magazine subscriptions, premium drinks on Delta Sky Club lounges and donations |
| American Airlines | Flight upgrades, vacation packages, experiences, newspaper subscriptions, donations and Admirals Club membership |
| Hawaiian Airlines | Flight upgrades, rental cars, magazines subscriptions and donations |
| Frontier Airlines | Magazines subscriptions and donations |
| Spirit Airlines | Magazines subscriptions |
| Alaska Airlines | Flight upgrades, hotel stays, newspaper subscriptions and donations |
| JetBlue | Vacation packages and donations |
| Sun Country Airlines | Vacation packages and donations |
People also ask
How can I check my frequent flyer miles balance?
The best way to check your frequent flyer miles balance is by logging in to the airline's website. The miles balance will be easily accessible from your online account.
Another way to check your mileage balance is to call your airline’s frequent flyer customer service number. You will need to… read full answer
Can I transfer my frequent flyer miles to another person?
Yes, most miles can be transferred between people that are using the same frequent flyer rewards program. However, transfer terms are unique to each program, so the best way to determine if transferring miles is suitable for you is to call your airline’s frequent flyer customer service number and ask… read full answer
How long does it take for the frequent flyer miles to show up on my account?
Frequent flyer miles will show up on your account between 1-5 days after your flight, on average. Below you can find specific information about some of the major airlines:
| Airline | Details |
|---|---|
| United Airlines | Miles will be deposited to your account within 48 hours after travel is completed. For partner… read full answer |
Did we answer your question?